The Shifting Donut

The dynamic nature of cities pushes us to be continual learners. What was once true about a city ten years ago may not be true today. Neighborhoods change, demographics shift, industries are born or die out. In order to be effective in cities, we need to be students that seek to understand the trends and implications they have for those with whom we work.

For example, urban downtowns and central neighborhoods in the US have attracted increased numbers of young, educated, high-income residents since 1990. Why is that so? What does that mean for the suburbs and outlying areas in US cities? What does that mean for churches or ministries that serve people of various income levels or backgrounds?

Here is a short article overviewing some of the shifting demographics and US cities. Maybe it will open your eyes to consider what shifts might be happening in your own urban backyard!